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People may joke about “senior moments”—those times when their memory suddenly fails, and they are unable to come up with the name of their boss or the time they are supposed to meet for dinner. The truth is that throughout our lives, there will always be times when our memory fails us.

Heat 8 ounces chopped chocolate on the stove until completely melted, stirring frequently. Remove from heat and stir in the remaining chopped chocolate until melted and combined. Pour the melted chocolate onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spread the mixture into a ¼-inch thick rectangle. Working quickly, sprinkle the cranberries, pistachios, apricots, almonds, and orange zest evenly over the chocolate. Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for 7 to 10 minutes to harden. Break or cut the chocolate into pieces. Source: Fast & Simple Gluten-Free by Gretchen F. Brown,RD

For a no-bake dessert that will please kids, parents, and their taste buds, give these bite-size chocolate balls a try. Makes 30 balls.

¾ cup low-fat crunchy peanut butter

¼ cup Welch’s 100% Grape Juice made with Concord grapes

1 cup oats

1 tablespoon ground flax seed

2 teaspoons honey

3 tablespoons dark chocolate chips

1 teaspoon vanilla

Heat peanut butter in a microwave about 25 seconds, until thinned out. Remove from microwave and stir in grape juice. Add oats, flax seed, honey, chocolate chips, and vanilla; stir to incorporate. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Line a baking sheet with waxed paper or parchment paper. Using a teaspoon or a melon baller, form mixture into balls. Place in the refrigerator and allow to cool again for at least 30 minutes. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Source: Robin Plotkin,RD, LD, robinsbite.com

Many Americans equate the term traditional medicine with the current Western, pharmaceutical medical model. We go to the doctor, complain about our ailments, fill our prescriptions, and file insurance claims. Though it’s now the norm, many are not aware that this Western form of medicine has only existed for a little longer than two centuries.

What is the first thing that comes to mind for achieving optimal wellness? Sure, there are many factors to consider, but most people don’t put meditation at the top of the list for physical health and long-term wellness. However, this view may change as fascinating research continues to enlighten us on the extensive health benefits of this time-honored practice.

From a biological standpoint, energy maintains a continuous cycle of regeneration throughout one’s life cycle. Our bodies consistently work to create energy every minute of every day, and—if managed correctly—it has virtually unlimited potential.

Vermont, Maine, and New Hampshire, respectively, claimed the top three spots in the 2014 Locavore Index, a ranking of each state’s—and the District of Columbia’s—commitment to promoting and providing locally grown foods.

These sweet ‘n’ spicy potatoes make the perfect side dish to accompany any meal. Serves 4.

2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1/2 -inch pieces

3 cups cooked chickpeas

1 large onion, peeled and chopped

1 teaspoon cinnamon (or more to taste)

1 teaspoon sea salt (or more to taste)

2 tablespoons coconut oil, divided

Preheat oven to 425 degrees and line a large baking sheet with parchment or a nonstick liner. Peel and chop sweet potatoes. In a large bowl, add the cooked chickpeas, uncooked sweet potatoes, chopped onion, cinnamon, salt, and 1 tablespoon coconut oil. Mix well. Spread onto prepared baking sheet and place in the oven for 35 to 40 minutes. Remove from oven and place into a large bowl. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of coconut oil and stir well to coat. Add additional sea salt if preferred. Source: Angela Liddon,ohsheglows.com